Pet eye problems range from mild to severe, causing a range of issues from minor irritation to severe vision loss and chronic discomfort. Although vision-impaired pets can live full, happy lives, the goals of eye disease management are preserving vision when possible and eliminating eye pain to ensure a good quality of life. 

Pet owners should learn to recognize common pet eye problems and seek treatment from our Tamberly Animal Hospital team to help maintain their pet’s optimal eye health. We list a few of the most common pet eye problems in dogs and cats. 

1. Conjunctivitis in pets

Conjunctivitis, which is often called “pinkeye,” causes the eye’s usually clear to pale pink tissue lining the eyelids and the eye white (i.e., sclera) to become intensely red and inflamed. In cats, conjunctivitis often results from viral or bacterial infections. In dogs, the condition is more likely to arise from allergies, irritants, or an immature immune system in puppies. Signs include redness, mucoid discharge, tissue swelling, and squinting. Treatment may consist of antibiotic, anti-viral, or anti-inflammatory topical medications.

2. Cataracts in pets

Cataracts occur when the eye’s clear lens becomes cloudy or opaque, leading to blurred or obstructed vision. Diabetes, trauma, nutritional imbalances, age, and genetics can contribute to cataract formation. Cataracts often cause inflammation inside the eye, which can lead to secondary complications like glaucoma or retinal detachment. Cataract signs include a white or greyish appearance inside the eye and diminished vision. Surgery is the only treatment to restore vision, although many pet owners forgo surgery and instead opt for anti-inflammatory therapies to prevent complications.

3. Glaucoma in pets

Glaucoma causes increased pressure in the eye with pain, optic nerve damage, and vision loss. Glaucoma in dogs occurs more frequently in certain breeds and typically affects both eyes. In cats, the disease is usually secondary. Glaucoma can develop gradually or suddenly, typically causing complete vision loss in one eye before the disease is recognized. Treatment may delay onset in the other eye. Glaucoma signs include redness, cloudiness, dilated pupils, vision loss, and eye enlargement. Treatment may include medication therapy, surgery, or both. Eye removal is recommended in blind, painful, glaucomatous eyes.

4. Corneal ulcers in pets

Corneal ulcers are scrapes or divots on the cornea (i.e., the transparent layer covering the eye). Eye ulcers are common in dogs and cats, with many possible causes, including trauma, infections, corneal inflammation, dry eye, eyelid or eyelash conditions, and age or breed. Most ulcers are shallow and mild and heal in a few days with antibiotic eye drops and a cone collar for protection. However, some ulcers become deep or infected and eye rupture or vision loss becomes a risk. Signs include squinting, tearing, and rubbing. Treatment may include eye drops, oral medications, or in severe cases, surgery. 

5. Dry eye in pets

Dry eye (i.e., keratoconjunctivitis sicca [KCS]) occurs when the tear glands don’t produce enough of the watery tear layer. This dries out the tear film, leaving only the mucous tear component behind and causing a thick, stringy discharge. Untreated KCS is uncomfortable and causes inflammation and scarring that can lead to vision loss. Causes include immune system malfunctions, third eyelid gland prolapse (i.e., cherry eye), nerve disorders, or congenital malformations. Signs include redness, copious thick discharge, squinting, and a dull or pigmented eye appearance. KCS requires life-long topical medications or, in severe cases, surgery.

Diagnosing and treating common pet eye problems

Our veterinary team can diagnose and treat minor eye health issues, including ulcers, dry eye, or conjunctivitis, during an office visit. However, severe pet eye problems or injuries may require referral to a veterinary ophthalmologist for specialized surgery and long-term management. Our team works closely with pet owners to determine the best treatment options for each individual pet.

Most pet eye problems present similar signs, such as redness, discharge, or squinting, so pet owners have difficulty determining the issue’s severity or cause. Prompt veterinary care can facilitate early diagnosis and prevent eye conditions from worsening. Contact our Tamberly Animal Hospital team to schedule a visit if you notice changes in your pet’s vision or eye appearance.